Immunology and Serology

The immunology and serology department is where antigens and antibodies are identified and quantified to determine if an infectious disease, autoimmune disorder, or other immunologic disease is present. This department works closely with the transfusion services, chemistry, microbiology, and molecular diagnostics departments.

The immunology and serology department receives serum specimens in red top, gold top, and speckle top tubes.

Immunology and serology tests measure the interactions between antigens and antibodies. Antigens are present on pathogens and red blood cells as specific indicators of their identities. Antibodies are produced by a type of white blood cell known as a plasma cell to identify and attack specific antigens that the immune system detects as foreign. The antibody attaches to the antigen on the pathogen or red blood cell. The antigen-antibody complex activates cellular elements that help to destroy and deactivate foreign pathogens.

Common infectious diseases detected by immunology and serology testing include hepatitis, HIV, influenza, infectious mononucleosis, and syphilis.

Common autoimmune disorders detected and monitored in the immunology and serology department include rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), multiple sclerosis (MS), celiac disease, and Crohn's disease.

The immunology and serology department may also perform specialized testing to determine compatibility for transplantation. An example of such specialized testing is human leukocyte antigen (HLA) typing, which matches organ donors with compatible recipients.